Compute-STEM
Abstract
The development of a highly trained Information Dominance Corp (IDC) has been forwarded as the means to advance the Naval superiority. Developing and maintaining the IDC requires a coherent and integrated model of STEM education supported by hands-on science and engineering activities, application of both theory and experiment, computer modeling and design integrated throughout STEM content. According to the Naval Science and Technology Strategic Plan, "large numbers of professionals will retire and fewer students are graduating with preparation and interest needed to pursue STEM careers." Additionally, “the quality of naval research depends upon nurturing and sustaining a well-educated, highly experienced and motivated workforce” and “the basic building block for the future workforce is a robust, strategic commitment to STEM education and talent development.” However, the national concern over the state of STEM education, especially the low production of STEM professionals for a growing workforce, still persists. Our proposal, Compute-STEM, is a direct response to the Office of Naval Research’s Strategic Plans, a growing need for computer science savvy workforce professionals, and the need to develop the IDC. We will utilize the infrastructure of the successful TUteach program at Temple University to support integrated coding and computer science initiatives across STEM curricula. We will create Instructional Leadership Teams comprised of TUteach Master Teachers, pre- and in-service teachers, and Navy Mentor Scientists and Engineers. Together they will develop, implement, and disseminate STEM lessons integrated with coding and computer science principles. The innovative lessons will focus on important Naval STEM workforce priorities such as power and energy, water systems, computer science, and cyber defense. These Compute-STEM lessons will be implemented and evaluated for effectiveness in participating secondary science classrooms. Successful lessons will be disseminated to larger population through professional workshops offered by the ILTs. This program will create high quality Instructional Leadership Teams that will work together to increase student engagement in STEM and computer science and consequently increase persistence in STEM degrees and progress to the STEM workforce.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Sep 29, 2017
- Source ID
- N000141712948
Entities
People
- Susan Varnum
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Temple University
- United States Navy